Asthma causes inflammation of the lungs, swelling the lining of the air passages, tightening muscles and restricting airflow, which can make it hard to breathe when asthma attacks occur. Allergic asthma reacts to air irritants, such as pollen, dust mites and pet dander, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Stress, anxiety, cold air, smoke or a virus can lead to non-allergic attacks. Episodes arise during exercise for people with exercise-induced asthma. People with asthma can check with their doctor when using natural methods and continue with their regular treatment plan.
Necessary Treatment
Short-term inhalers treat sudden attacks of asthma, such as shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. Long-term inhalers help keep asthma conditions under control and prevent attacks. These treatments are necessary for asthma sufferers. However, practicing a healthy lifestyle that includes natural techniques may provide additional protection to keep symptoms under control, MayoClinic.com notes.
Exercise and Diet
Regular exercise strengthens the heart and lungs to relieve or reduce asthma symptoms. Even people with exercise-induced asthma exercise for strength with caution. They keep inhalers handy in case of sudden attacks. A healthy diet keeps weight under control to relieve symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. Fruits and vegetables help increase lung function to protect the body against frequent asthma symptoms. People with asthma may experience acid reflux and heartburn that worsen asthma symptoms. Avoiding foods that trigger heartburn and taking medication to prevent acid reflux may reduce acid reflux and asthma symptoms.
Fish Oil
Eating fish with omega-3 fatty acids on a regular basis may reduce inflammation that leads to asthma symptoms. Salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, herring and lake trout contain plenty of omega-3 fatty acids. Some people find relief through fish oil supplements with omega-3 fatty acids. Some research suggests fish oil supplements may reduce inflammation and symptoms in children and adults, but studies have focused only on a small number of people, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Alternative Medicine
Supplements that reduce asthma attacks may include magnesium; selenium; potassium; vitamin C; vitamin B6; coenzyme Q10; beta-carotene; and choline, a B vitamin. Medicinal herbs that may help relieve asthma include coleus forskohlii, tylophora, pycnogenol and boswellia. Research shows promising results for supplements and herbs, but their effectiveness has not been proven. They should not replace a treatment plan worked out with an asthmatic's doctor.
Relaxation
Breathing exercises and yoga help reduce stress and anxiety, which can protect against asthma symptoms. Relaxation techniques include meditation, biofeedback and progressive muscle relaxation. The methods help relax the muscles in the body to bring on a calming effect that may reduce asthma symptoms. Some people benefit from acupuncture in which tiny needles are placed on certain points of the body to improve energy flow.
